SAF is not the only sustainable aviation energy to benefit from LCFS . Like SAF , hydrogen fuel produced with renewable energy ( like hydroelectric dams ) has attracted leaders in production and utilization to Washington State .
magniX and Seattle-based AeroTEC ( which develops , tests , and certifies new aircraft products ) are working with Universal Hydrogen to retrofit regional turboprop aircraft with hydrogen-fueled electric powertrains . Testing and certification for the conversion will occur at AeroTEC ’ s Moses Lake facility . When certified , Universal Hydrogen ’ s conversion kit will transform any ATR 42 aircraft to zero-emission propulsion .
Once again , Washington State is poised to produce the energy as well as the aircraft . Tacoma Power has a new Electrofuel Service Pilot program that offers producers of green hydrogen a discounted electricity rate .
Credit : AeroTEC
Renewable sources of SAF and hydrogen are predominately located in rural regions of Washington State , offering a unique green-jobs opportunity for those areas . By the end of the year , the Douglas County Public Utility District will convert excess hydropower generated at Wells Dam into renewable hydrogen , producing two tons of fuel a day .
Washington needs more public policies like LCFS to achieve our sustainable aviation future . By supporting the entire ecosystem – from energy demand to energy supply – Washington can lead a new era in aviation .
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE NO . 22 51